In terms of stress, what is meant by 'appraisal'?

In the context of stress, 'appraisal' refers to the process of evaluating one's resources in relation to potential stressors. This concept is central to the transactional model of stress, which posits that stress is not just a reaction to external events but is also significantly influenced by an individual's subjective interpretation of those events.

When a person encounters a situation that may induce stress, they first appraise the situation to determine its significance and their capacity to handle it. This evaluation involves examining the demands of the situation, the resources available to cope with it, and the potential outcomes. A positive appraisal can lead to feelings of confidence and resilience, while a negative appraisal can heighten feelings of stress and anxiety.

The other concepts listed do not encapsulate the specific meaning of appraisal within this framework. Estimating physical responses focuses on the body's biological reactions to stress, assessing environmental beauty relates to aesthetic evaluation, and determining coping strategies pertains to the methods used to handle stress after the appraisal process has taken place. Each of these elements plays a role in stress response, but appraisal specifically emphasizes the evaluation of available resources and personal capacities against perceived challenges.